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How to cover up acne scars like they never happened

Acne? What acne?

Photo: Cactus Hydrabalm

Maybe you’re born with it, maybe it’s a certain product that didn’t agree with your skin which caused it to do a break dance and leave nasty scars all over your face. Whichever it is, I think we can all agree that these dreadful little guys can create a huge dent in our confidence, making us feel more self-conscious than usual.

Hence, we’re always looking to feel a little less like The Hunchback of Notre Dame and more Ocean’s Eleven by pulling off the perfect cover up and minimizing the appearance of our acne scars with the use of our best friends: makeup. Keep scrolling to find out how you can do it too.

1. Start clean and freshIt’s no secret that for a smooth start in makeup, you’ve got to start with a fresh base. If you can, very gently cleanse and exfoliate your skin to get rid of any flakes. Next, what helps to soften, soothe and de-puff skin is to ice it for a minute or two. Wrap a block of ice in a cloth, dampen it just a little and lightly press it against different areas of your face. This also helps to reduce inflammation and redness. Then, apply moisturiser and a nourishing primer.

2. Blend it outIt’s important to take into consideration the combination of products you’re using when trying to enhance your complexion. You’d want to conceal your blemishes, but not to the point that you’re busy layering five layers of thick foundation and concealer – that will just suffocate your skin. Instead of going for heavy, full-coverage foundations, opt for something more lightweight or even a serum-in-foundation product; and rather than applying with a brush, use a damp sponge. As for concealer, on the other hand, you can afford to use one that’s very opaque and preferably matte, and apply small amounts with a fine-tipped concealer brush.

Photo: This is Glamorous Flickr

3. Stipple not swipeThe one thing to avoid is pulling or aggravating your already fragile skin. So, stay clear of swiping and buffing strokes. Practice stippling, dabbing motions to help blend the product onto affected areas with clean fingers, a sponge or brush. If you still have product left on your tool, you can go ahead and touch up surrounding areas so your whole face looks evened out.

4. Ready, set, goAfter all that hard work, you’re definitely going to want it to last you throughout the day, so make sure you set it in place. With an ultra-fine powder, give your face a light dusting before giving it a quick spritz of setting spray. If you’re worried that powders might cake up your complexion, then feel free to skip that and head straight to your setting spray.